Which of the following is an example of external desk research?

The correct answer is external desk research because it involves collecting and analyzing data that has already been published or gathered by other organizations outside of your own company. In this case, Enterprise Ireland export trade information provides insights into market conditions, trade statistics, and potential opportunities that are relevant to businesses seeking to enter or expand in international markets. Since this information is sourced externally, it exemplifies the purpose of external desk research in tapping into existing knowledge to inform decision-making processes.

The other options, while useful in their own right, do not represent external data sources. Company reports are typically internal documents reflecting an organization's performance. Sales records also belong to the company’s internal data set, documenting specific transactions and performance metrics. Marketing strategies pertain to how a company plans to promote its products or services and are based on the organization’s internal considerations. They don’t provide the external context or data from outside organizations that can help in broader market analysis.